About Us
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Hi! Riding at Island view is sooo much fun!!
There are ponies and horses for anybody – big or small, beginner or advanced, you will find a perfect partner here.
We can give you riding lessons, take you for a terrific trek or for a spin in our horse drawn carriage. We offer you the opportunity to splash across the Atlantic Channel to our own private island for a never to be forgotten picnic.
The farm is run by 3 generations of the O'Connor family.
Our stables are situated in the scenic North West of Ireland, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Donegal Bay. Originally from O Connors Island the family settled in the present mainland homestead in the 1950s. In 1994 the horse breeding and riding stables were added to the cattle farm. Today there are over 50 horses and ponies that enjoy a life close to nature in the vast fields between Benbulben Mountain and the sea. The nearest beach is only a few minutes ride from the stables. You can enjoy a fresh canter, a leisurely stroll or a splash in the sea. We offer you the unique opportunity to explore our private island on horseback.
Island view is not a purpose built monstrosity, but a small family farm that has grown into an equestrian centre with "old world charm". Bantham hens, runner ducks, rabbits and kittens roam the farm and provide hours of enchantment for our young visitors. Meet Pepsi the terrier and Rossi the miniature stallion!
".....I've ridden in some spectacular places but cantering along the sand with the Atlantic on one side and the Benbulben Mountain on the other takes some beating. As we rode back across slippery rocks, watching Ursula's cows on her own private island amble down to the beach, the sun broke through the clouds. It was a magical moment." Linsey McNeill in " A green oasis for all the family"
The Observer, Sunday 22nd February 2009.
The Island View Crew
Raymond O' Connor:
Little big boss and island farmer- Raymond makes sure the farm runs smoothly. He tries to keep jeeps and tractors running. Looks after the hay saving and feeding.
His real passion is the preservation of the Irish Draught Horse.
Raymond holds the BET ( British Equestrian Tourism) Ride leader, Red Cross First Aid at Work, British Driving Society Preliminary and Road Safety certificates.
Ursula Schweiger O'Connor (nickname "Uschi"):
Born in Bavaria ( Germany) Ursula fell in love with the place, married Raymond and settled here. Ursula is in charge of running the yard and office. She looks after the training of horses and riders. Ursula competes in dressage and recently also in carriage driving.
She is the first and so far only Centered Riding® instructor recognised by Sally Swift in Ireland.
Ursula holds BET ( British Equestrian Tourism) Ride leader, Centered Riding® level 2, EFI (Equestrian Federation of Ireland) Level 1 Coach, British Horse Society and Irish Sports Council Child Protection, British Driving Society Preliminary , Road Safety and Intermediate Certificate and Occupational First Aid Certificates. Ursula is currently training towards her British Driving Society teaching qualification ( preliminary teaching test).
Anke Hirschelmann
The cool Blonde from North Germany. Barbie-looks on the outside, but a really tough lady on the inside. Anke came for a short work experience, but found out that she loves the Irish way of life and stayed. Anke works on all fronts of the business.
John-Alfred and Elisa
Budding horse farmers. Take after their parents Raymond and Uschi. John- Alfred is an expert bug hunter and chicken tamer. Elisa started riding in nappies and impresses with a steady seat and bags of confidence. She is a rising star in the pony club dressage and eventing scene.
Liz and Ellieby
Behind the scenes are Granny Liz and Ellieby. Friendly receptionists and the ladies at the heart of the family enterprise.
"Equestrian Tourism Centre of Excellence" category that we have been awarded by Discover Ireland.